Statistics on Divorce

In 1999,  according to the U.S. Census Bureau statistics on divorce, a total of 1,175,000 dissolutions were granted in the U.S. The average rate of filing was 4.3 couples per 1000. Currently, 20,350,000 adults have terminated at least one marriage. The median age at the time of termination is 35.6 for males and 33.2 for females. The median time of duration is 7.2 years. The census estimated 1,280,000 children were involved, or stated similarly, 16.8 children per one thousand under the age of 18 who are involved. 80% of men and 75% of women remarry, regardless of  preexisting children. Most men remarry within three years. Most women remarry within 5 years.

Note when filing:

The availability of the dissolution of marriage, property distributions, and child support requirements are unique to each state because of variations in divorce decisions rendered by courts. As new cases are decided, new precedents establish variations in application. For this reason, everyone considering filing should consult local legal counsel. Best results are obtained through careful planning with legal counsel before committing to any course of action. Also be aware that filing creates a permanent public record. These records are rarely withdrawn, expunged or deleted absent extraordinary circumstances. Public records are available to anyone who inquires for a nominal fee.

A primary consideration driving the development of new laws revolves around children of the marriage. Children are typically not represented by attorneys in proceedings, yet are considered, as a matter of judicial and public policy, to have an overriding interest in the outcome. The needs of children financially, socially, parentally and educationally are considered the joint responsibility of parents. Courts are charged with responsibility to protect all interests of children in family court despite agreed requests of parents which may be inconsistent.